The Executive Assessment Blog

Survey data gathered by the Graduate Management Admission Council™ showed that more than 1 in 3 employed professionals in the U.S. are between the ages of 23 and 39, and this generation’s representation in the workforce is still increasing. What does this mean for the positioning of your school’s value proposition?

GMAC™ research indicates these professionals are now more educated than past generations, and it is important for graduate management education institutions to understand their motivations, aspirations, and attitudes, and respond accordingly. Here’s a look at what makes this younger generation unique, and how business schools are engaging with them.

It’s not always practical to make the leap from full-time work to full-time study, which is why many experienced professionals enroll in part-time MBA programs. Maintaining the balance between your education and other obligations pays off. Approximately two-thirds of part-time MBA graduates have received more promotions than peers who did not obtain an MBA—and the benefits do not end there.

Part of what makes a part-time MBA so appealing is that you can continue to work and earn money while pursuing your studies. Even so, the financial commitment required to do a part-time MBA should still factor into your planning. When considering your education, you can think about your part-time MBA as a business endeavor for which you need investment. How much will it cost? Where will the funding come from? What is your expected ROI? The following ideas will guide you as you navigate these questions.